Our Perfect One Day in Ostuni, The White City of Puglia
It’s no secret that Ostuni is one of our favourite places in Puglia. We spent over 10 days travelling through this fantastic region in Southern Italy, falling in love with it and exploring every single corner to catch the soul.
This guide to Ostuni in one day will help you plan the perfect itinerary; however, by the end, you will get some tips on staying overnight. The city is charming after sunset and less crowded, making it more lovely indeed.
An itinerary of Ostuni in one day, exploring the doors that make this white village on the hilltop of Puglia very famous. The slow lifestyle of Ostuni will captivate you. Take an aperitif in Piazza Liberta’, walk through the Arco Scoppa or the Episcopal Palace. We are ready to get you through this unique Ostuni itinerary.
One Day Ostuni itinerary
FAQ | Ostuni One Day itinerary
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Ostuni One day itinerary Map
Is Ostuni possible as a day trip? Our personal experience
Indeed, Ostuni’s old town is a unique gem, compact enough to be easily explored on foot. Its main sights, steeped in history and culture, are a delight for first-time Puglia explorers. Many travellers, like us, opt for a day trip to Ostuni or a local organized tour.
Our journey began in Brindisi aboard a bus that took us through San Vito dei Normanni. This scenic route was the perfect introduction to Puglia, with its iconic whitewashed houses dotting the landscape.
Once arrive in Ostuni, you will see why it is so popular in Puglia; the town keeps its Medieval features, which make it one of the oldest settlements in the region.
How to make the most of your one day in Ostuni?
A day trip to Ostuni is duable if you arrive early. The old town is very touristy, so the best advice is to avoid weekends. If you get to Ostuni after 10 am, you will be surrounded by tours and tourists. You’ll have the best time arriving in town by 9.00am, or earlier.
Usually shops in Ostuni open around 10am, when the main tours and buses full of tourists arrive. If you get before, or stay overnight in Ostuni you might be able to get the town all for yourself.
Bear in mind that you will walk a lot, going up and down cobblestone alleys and hiking stairs. The old town is uphill, so get light, breathable clothes if you are exploring in summer. If you are exploring Puglia in winter, remember to carry a jacket, as all hilltop towns are windy.
Detailed day trip to Ostuni
One day in Ostuni might seem short, but with careful planning and a touch of local knowledge, you can experience the essence of this captivating town. Here are some tips to maximize your time in town:
Morning Activities:
- Early Bird Gets the View: Arrive early, ideally before 9:00 am, to avoid crowds and capture the beauty of Ostuni bathed in the morning light. Public buses typically start operating early (6 am), so you can arrive refreshed and ready to explore. If you rent a car, even better, but check the correct location for the parking space beforehand.
- Start From Below: Instead of heading straight uphill, consider taking a detour towards Porta Nova (New Gate) at the foot of the town. Enjoy the panoramic views of the valley and snap some breathtaking photos before your ascent.
- Get lost in the Labyrinth: Get lost (download the map offline) in the maze of whitewashed alleys. Remember that the main street is for regular tourists, and the side narrow alleys are for adventurers. Wander down side streets, peek into hidden small restaurants and pop-up pizza shops, and discover the town’s hidden gems. Keep an eye out for the unique doorways—each one a work of art in itself. Sometimes, arches lead you to unique corners.
Essential Stops:
- Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta & Arco Scoppa: Ascend to the imposing cathedral and admire its architecture. Next door, don’t miss the iconic Arco Scoppa, a magnificent arched gateway.
- Piazza della Libertà is the heart of Ostuni, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere. Grab a gelato (we recommend stracciatella, fichi, and or lemon flavours; these are fresh and locally sourced) and enjoy the sunshine.
- Secret Viewpoint: Skip the crowded belvedere near the cathedral and head to Piazzetta Martiri delle Foibe instead. This hidden square offers equally stunning panoramic views, often with fewer crowds.
Lunchtime in Ostuni
- Fuel Up Like a Local: Indulge in a delicious Puglian lunch at a traditional “trattoria” or “osteria.” Try “orecchiette” with “cime di rapa” or “freselle” with fresh tomatoes, basil, oregano, mozzarella, olive oil and more (sometimes seafood too). Don’t forget a glass of local Primitivo wine!
What to do in the afternoon in Ostuni:
- Dive Deeper into local sights:
- For history enthusiasts: Explore the Museo delle Civiltà Preclassiche or the Diocesan Museum.
- Walks and Hikes: Walk along the perimeter of the old town walls (Le Mura di Ostuni) for historical insights and stunning views.
- For coffee addicts (like me!): We loved stopping by small cafes. These keep the charming feeling and offer a moment of relaxation and peace. Enjoy some side sweet or savoury to accompany your coffee. If it’s afternoon, it’s better to go for a spritz (Alchool involved) and snacks.
- Don’t miss sunset: Sunset is one of the best times to explore Ostuni. The lights game makes a difference in photography, and you will witness the golden hue glowing on the whitewashed houses. Head back to the Belvedere near the cathedral for the best vantage point.
Evening Itinerary:
- Dinner with a View: If you are spending the night in Ostuni, remember to book a table at a restaurant with a panoramic view. Ostuni is great for fresh seafood (the seaside is nearby) and meat dishes. You must accompany your dinner with a locally sourced wine.
- Walk around at night: During the day, Ostuni is definitely overcrowded, as tourists come just for day trips. At night, when everyone is gone the city is more enjoyable, and you can find cute spots all for yourself. The relaxed atmosphere is lively at the weekend when stands open up from 6 pm till late, and street performers take space on the narrow alleys.
Maximize your time in Ostuni
- Purchase Tickets Online: Avoid queues by buying entrance tickets to museums or tours online in advance.
- Prioritize: With limited time, decide which sights hold the most interest for you and prioritize them accordingly.
- Pack Light: Packing light makes it easier to get around and don’t get stressed about the weight. If you can leave the bags at your accommodation when you arrive, even better, if you rent a car, leave it for later
One Day In Ostuni Itinerary
As said, our trip to Puglia was amazing, and we really enjoyed our little retreat in Ostuni. It was just one stop on our tight Puglia itinerary, and we had to plan it perfectly to fit everything. That’s why we will share our organization with you, helping you plan your time in Ostuni efficiently.
We have put together a detailed one-day Ostuni itinerary that will cover everything you must visit in the white city.
By the end of this incredible guide to Ostuni, you will get some frequently asked questions that will make your plan more accurate.
Top Tours & Experiences in Ostuni
Spending one day in Ostuni might not be enough to explore the whole on your own. So, that’s why we suggest you book in advance one of the following tours.
These are the best guides to secret spots and how to hop from one landmark to another if you don’t have enough time or explore Puglia in summer when it is too hot to walk around.
- A walking tour of Ostuni
- Cooking class in a local home
- Olive Oil tasting and lunch in Masseria in Ostuni (Private Tour)
- Has anyone mentioned wine? Enjoy this wine and street food in Ostuni
- Traditional Apulian Olive oil tasting
Tips from locals to enjoy Ostuni even more
Eat a Get a gelato at Cremeria alla Scala
Italy in summer means outdoor activities and gelato. While in Ostuni, you must pay a visit to “Cremeria alla Scala”, one of the best in town.
A cremeria isn’t properly a gelato shop, as it is more creamy and delicious. We actually love cremeria more than a gelato shop. Visiting Alla scala, you will get the taste of local products melting in divine flavours. This popular gelato shop in Ostuni is near the main square, right in front of the Column of Sant’Oronzo. You can’t miss it.
Spend time for the best Aperitivo
It is almost midday, so you must drink something and stay hydrated. The best way to do that in Puglia is by sipping an aperitif. Stick around the Gateway of Salento Door and walk down the stairway. It is one of the best places to get drinks and sides.
The iconic staircase goes down to the Ostuni Walls and is an iconic hidden gem of this white village. We suggest sitting at Borgo Antico Bistrot for a refreshing juice or drink. It gets very busy, but it’s worth it. You can get some of the best photos of Ostuni, even just from the top of the staircase. Alternatively, you can sign up for this aperitif in a local Masseria, tasting traditional local cheese and wine. CHECK THE PERK HERE.
Where to eat in Ostuni
If you haven’t got a bite yet, next to Porta San Demetrio, there is a lovely restaurant, Taverna della Gelosia. Cute diner, with tables on a lovely terrace surrounded by trees and groves. They offer a traditional menu for a reasonable price.
Fit your itinerary with a visit to a museum
This is an optional thing to do in Ostuni, and we know it might not fit well with the few hours you have available. However, visiting a museum is something very interesting. There are three main museums in Ostuni:
- Museum of Preclassic Civilizations of the Southern Murgia
- Museo Diocesano di Ostuni
- Parco Archeologico e Naturale di Santa Maria di Agnano
The one we suggest you concentrate on is the historical museum. The Preclassic Civilizations of Southern Murgia Museum is hosted in an old convent which houses several discoveries made in this area of Puglia. The highlight of this landmark of Ostuni is the exhibit of Delia, a well-preserved skeleton of a 25000-year-old expectant mother.
Catch the Sunset from the hilltop
If you are willing to walk a bit more, not far from the old town, reach Piazzetta Martiri delle Foibe (Check here the correct location). This is a lovely viewpoint of the hilltop town, perfect for sunset.
Savour Authentic Local Flavors
For dinner, you should savour the traditional Pugliese cuisine at a family-run trattoria tucked away on a side street. There are so many good spots that you just have to follow the good smells.
Dishes like orecchiette with broccoli and cime di rapa, fresh cheese, meat, and grilled seafood are the perfect way to end a fantastic day in Ostuni. These are some suggestions from locals:
Casa San Giacomo Ostuni | Mid-Price but good in a traditional restaurant, offering local dishes in a cosy venue. It is perfect for couples seeking romance in an arched setting with soft lights.
Fave e Fogghje | It’s more traditional than the first and perfect for an inviting atmosphere. The setting is quite picturesque, but it’s amazing for your Puglia Holiday memories.
Il Posto Affianco | This is our favourite, a local backyard garden. You will dine under the stars and wine groves. Of course, traditional dishes and Mid-range prices.
Where to stay in Ostuni
If you decide to stay overnight in Ostuni, it is the perfect choice. You can wake up early and enjoy the old town without tourists around. Also, consider that the feeling of staying in a traditional white house is one of the best things we had while exploring Puglia.
We suggest you stay in a local Masseria for the best memories. We know that some local hotels are pricier, but we found some pretty accessible alternatives. Check out some of our suggestions below.
BUDGET ACCOMMODATION
La Piana degli Ulivi is a great option for staying a few days in Ostuni. This family-friendly accommodation is affordable and comes with many amenities to enhance your stay.
Staying here you can make a good use of the pool with view over the sea, and fresh atmosphere in a olive groves countryside masseria.
How to get to Ostuni
Ostuni is very central within Puglia and is located closest to the coast. The closest airport to Ostuni is Brindisi-Salento Airport (BDS). However, most travellers get to Ostuni from Bari International Airport.
There is a direct bus from Bari and Brindisi airport to Ostuni, and these are cheap. You can also rent a car, and get around the Puglia countryside. Check our guide to One week in Puglia for more insights.
We also got around Puglia using solely public transport, and it was easier than expected. Check our guide to Puglia without a car.
For private transportation, you can book in advance, with ease, and get your pickup from the airport. Check this trusted service here.
Book your tour of Valle d’Itria hassle free
If you are short on time, the best way to optimize it is to book your tour in advance. We suggest relying on GetYourGuide to organize everything for you. This tour will take care of all the essentials, transportation and guides, with pickup and drop off. Essentially, you don’t have to do anything; just show up.
The tour includes a visit to Alberobello, Ostuni, Locorotondo and Polignano a Mare, filling a 9-hour tour for a very convenient price, just €99 per person. CHECK THE TOUR HERE.
How to get around Ostuni
One of the best things about Ostuni is that you can walk around without problems. The old town is mostly pedestrian-only, and cars are not allowed if there are no residents.
If you have mobility problems or do not walk around and it is too hot, you can hop on a guided tuk-tuk tour of Ostuni. These are the only vehicles allowed to get around.
Best time to visit Ostuni
Spring and early fall are ideal, with mild temperatures. Remember you are in Southern Italy, and this part of the country experiences very hot summers. We visited Puglia once in September and it was nice, less hot than usual.
Also, consider a winter holiday at 20 °C next to the sea and within fair distance from the major European countries.
More Than One Day in Ostuni?
If you can spend more than just 1 day in Ostuni, why don’t you plan it as a base for further exploration? Ostuni’s position on the boundaries of Valle D’Itria, but very close to the seaside, makes it perfect to spend a few days here.
You can enjoy other cute white villages such as Cisternino, Locorotondo and Alberobello, move across to Martina Franca, or spend days lounging on the beaches of Brindisi, Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. All these locations are within 20-minute to 1-hour drive and reachable by public transport too.